Rugby Shirts: Princess Diana's Favourite Sports-Centric Staple

All Hail The Rise Of The Rugby Shirt, The Sports-Centric Staple Loved By Princess Diana

No football knowledge required - by Diandra Malivindi

It comes as no surprise that celebrities and designers continue to be inspired by Princess Diana’s style. From her sheep-adorned jumper—that Harry Styles famously wore—to her ode to ‘90s sportswear—effortlessly recreated by Hailey Bieber—but now, another one of Lady Di’s most-loved trends is on our radar.

Introducing: the rugby shirt.

The late Princess famously donned the sports-centric garment, particularly a cotton candy baby blue and light pink version paired with white denim, polished blue loafers and famous Tod's 'D-Bag'—that was named after her—while attending the Chelsea Harbour Health Club in 1997. Despite it having been 24 years since then, the trend continues to make waves.

Getty

Of course, athletes could claim the sporty staple as their own but fashion’s It-crowd have taken on the horizontal stripe and contrast collar combo courtesy of the former royal. While most often seen on the sports field, rugby tops have been featured in (somewhat) recent collections by the likes of Stella McCartney, Lacoste and Marc Jacobs.

Getty

From fashion runways to street style, the classic striped shirt may have become the epitome of preppy dressing, but there’s a myriad of ways it can be styled to channel your inner Lady Di or otherwise.

Below, we’ve collected the best and most chic rugby shirts to shop—no football knowledge necessary.